This dictionary is the product of 20 years of experience of John Brenner, a Forensic Scientist for the New York State Police. He has written a book which is likely to be a long-term companion to undergraduate forensic science students as there are so many definitions to be learnt. It seems to cover most areas studied and is a useful reference for many different fields such as Toxicology, Document Examination and Criminalistics. Although it is not possible to compare this book with the first edition, the Forensic Science Glossary, this version certainly seems to contain most of the terms and abbreviations needed.
Unlike most dictionaries, this has a Table of Contents to direct the reader to the first page of each letter in the alphabet. It avoids the initial leafing through, which is a useful time saver if using the resource in a lecture.
The book is additionally written for non-scientists and this is reflected by some of the words included. It would be hoped, for example, that anyone studying Forensics would have heard of chemical molecules such as benzene.
Other definitions are so basic that there seems little need for them to be in the dictionary at all; most people know the meaning of the word ankle.
In contrast, even with a scientific background a few of the descriptions are difficult to understand.
The problem with any dictionary is that in order to provide a definition, words that appear later in the book may have to be used in earlier descriptions, meaning their definitions must be retrieved before the initial word can be understood.
There seems to be a mixture of presentation styles within the dictionary. Legal Action is not found under 'L' but under 'A', Action (Legal), whereas Legal Custody is found under 'L'. A quick look for a definition could take longer than expected if the wrong word was used.
Throughout the pages there are photographs from old cases and of equipment that has been described. The pictures may increase understanding of the definitions but they are not always in close proximity to the appropriate words and may be missed. It is also tempting to flick through and look at the photographs rather than continue the definition search.
It is likely this book would accompany students to lectures; therefore a lightweight, paperback version would be preferable. However, an Internet search indicates that this book is only available in hardback.
At �52.99 the dictionary is expensive. Other forensic dictionaries, such as Facts on File Dictionary of Forensic Science by Suzanne Bell, are offered in hard and paperback. Bell's dictionary is considerably cheaper than Brenner's but I do not have a copy of Facts on File available to compare the two to see if the price reflects the quality of the contents.
In order to study forensic science comprehensively, a clear understanding of science is needed. Brenner's dictionary provides a quick and easy single source reference for undergraduates. If they bought this book, it is unlikely they would be disappointed, and therefore it is worth purchasing.
